What is drowning? Drowning is defined as respiratory impairment from submersion or immersion in liquid. When a student is panicking underwater they expend a lot of energy, which consumes more oxygen and causes involuntary breaths, typically ingesting more water. Their airway (larynx) spasms and closes as water comes in, often redirecting it to the stomach. If the person loses consciousness, the throat will relax, allowing water to flow into the lungs. In either case, their lungs can't supply oxygen to the body, which can cause long-term damage and often death.

Why does a drowning person lose consciousness? Within 3 minutes of being underwater, most people lose consciousness. Within 5 minutes underwater, the brain's oxygen supply begins to drop. A lack of oxygen can cause brain damage.

What is near-drowning? With early intervention and effective CPR, a person can survive a drowning event but there are usually serious long-term health effects including lung complications and brain damage.

What is active supervision? Active supervision means staying within sight and reach of a student at all times.